Both Kyle McKinnis (center left) and Tess Karsevar (center right) were promoted to second degree black belt before a panel of judges. Also pictured: McKinnis' partner, Keanu Karsevar (left) and Tess's partner, Tuan Karsever (right). Photo Tuan Karsevar

Campolindo senior Kyle McKinnis demonstrated his martial arts skills before a council of Shihan, "master teachers," in Marysville, Washington over Columbus Day weekend.

McKinnis was competing for a second degree black belt, "nidan," in the karate form Shito-ryu.

The test included a demonstration of techniques, such as blocking strikes and kicks, and immediately countering with strikes, kicks, and/or take downs. Orders were given in Japanese to the eight advanced-degree promotion candidates.

The candidates were tested for mental alertness, knowledge of the many traditional fighting stances, blocks, and strikes, and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

McKinnis began training in September 2001 and achieved his first black belt in 2005.

He has been an assistant instructor at Northern California Karate-do, a non-profit school in Walnut Creek, for the last two years.